As the Australian summer heats up, so does the literary scene with a sizzling array of new releases set to dominate beach bags and backyard reading nooks. From deeply personal memoirs to page-turning crime novels and celebrations of local culture, the January 2026 lineup offers something for every reader.
Non-Fiction: Stories of Courage, Politics & The Open Road
Malala Yousafzai returns to bookshelves with a powerful and introspective new memoir, Finding My Way. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who was shot by the Taliban at age 15 for advocating girls' education in Pakistan, moves beyond the story of her survival detailed in I Am Malala. In this new work, published by W&N for $34.99, she reveals the anxieties and challenges of young adulthood, reclaiming her narrative and sharing how finding love aided her journey of self-discovery.
For a dose of political satire closer to home, the Macquarie Dictionary presents Dirty Politics ($24.99). This compilation delves into nearly two decades of political wordplay, from "adhocracy" to "zombie savings," offering a witty and sometimes scathing look at the language of power. With a foreword by comedian Sammy J, it's guaranteed to amuse anyone who follows the political circus.
Inspired by the popular SBS television series, Great Australian Road Trips by Smita Kunvarji ($36.99, Simon & Schuster) is the perfect companion for armchair travellers and trip planners alike. The book charts six spectacular journeys across the country, from Tasmania's wild west coast to the Red Centre and the Great Barrier Reef, packed with insights into local history, culture, and hidden gems.
The beloved comedy trio Sooshi Mango brings their signature humour to the kitchen with Eat! Mamma Knows Best ($39.99, Murdoch Books). Joe Salanitri, Carlo Salanitri, and Andrew Manfre channel their Italian-Australian mammas in a cookbook bursting with authentic recipes and nostalgic 1970s and 80s suburban kitsch style.
Fiction: Crime, Obsession & Historical Adventure
The fiction releases are equally compelling, led by Marisa Kashino's debut novel, Best Offer Wins ($34.99, Doubleday). This darkly comedic tale follows Margo, whose desperate quest for the perfect home descends into a dangerously obsessive mission, posing timely questions about property and identity.
Fans of gritty Australian crime will dive into The Casino ($34.99, Ultimo Press) by Iain Ryan. The third book in his 1980s Queensland quartet finds Detective Lana Cohen on the Gold Coast, entangled in a high-stakes underworld battle after a severed hand washes ashore, threatening her peaceful paradise.
In a fascinating blend of fact and fiction, Alexandria Burnham's debut Swallow ($34.99, WestWorlds Publications) tells the story of convict William Swallow, the last man tried for piracy in England. Sent to the brutal Sarah Island in Van Diemen's Land in 1829, Swallow's plan to mutiny and sail home to his family drives this romantic adventure, the first in a planned trilogy.
And in a bittersweet final outing, the late Kerry Greenwood delivers the 23rd mystery for the inimitable Miss Phryne Fisher. In Murder in the Cathedral ($34.99, Allen & Unwin), the glamorous 1930s sleuth travels to Bendigo for a friend's investiture as bishop, only to find herself investigating a deacon's murder amidst the town's grand church politics.
Your Summer Reading Sorted
This diverse collection of January 2026 releases promises to deliver captivating stories, laughter, and adventure throughout the long summer days. Whether you're seeking profound reflection, a thrilling plot, or a taste of Australian life, these books are ready to provide the perfect literary escape.
